create header file (.h) and .lib file in visual c#

Question

I want to create a dll in visual c#, and use it in win32 program (visual c++). From what I understand, for adding dll file in Visual C++ , I need also .h file and .lib file, but when I create a class library in visual c# I only get dll file.
Is it possible to create a .h file and .lib file in visual c# ?

Read this: http://stackoverflow.com/questions/4818850/is-is-possible-to-export-functions-from-a-c-sharp-dll-like-in-vs-c — Steve B, Jan 16 '13 at 13:36

Tommaso Belluzzo · Answer 1 · 2013-01-16T13:41:27.293

5

No, it's not possible. But here is what you can do to use a C# library in C++:

C++/CLI Wrapper (this allows you to have both managed and unmanaged code in the same source file. The managed portion can then call the C# code). Here you can find an example.
Host CLR (the CLR acts as a library that can be loaded and "hosted" by a process).
COM Interop (expose your .NET type as a COM interface and matching coclass which you can easily use from unmanaged C++).

This thread is also quite interesting!

edited Jan 16 '13 at 13:41

answered Jan 16 '13 at 13:35

Tommaso Belluzzo

23,232
8
74
98

I'm trying the first solution, I use a version of Visual Studio Express, can I create an empty solution? – user1544067 Jan 16 '13 at 15:46
What do you mean with "empty solution"? – Tommaso Belluzzo Jan 16 '13 at 15:51
this what written [here](http://code.msdn.microsoft.com/windowsdesktop/Consuming-C-Library-in-937458e5) Step 1. Create a empty solution. – user1544067 Jan 16 '13 at 15:56
Well just create a simple library project for a simple C# library. That's what he means. – Tommaso Belluzzo Jan 16 '13 at 15:57
if I will do it in visual c#, how will I create a C++ project in visual c#? – user1544067 Jan 16 '13 at 16:04
Well just stick on that guideline, it should do the job for you. You have to choose a C++ project type from the list of available projects types when you select to create a new project in VS: Templates -> Visual C# -> Class Library. – Tommaso Belluzzo Jan 16 '13 at 16:05
I think you do not know the Express version – user1544067 Jan 16 '13 at 16:11

score 0 · Answer 2 · answered Jan 16 '13 at 13:36

0

You could use LoadLibrary and GetProcAddress to load the DLL dynamically and you wouldn't need to create the files you refer to. You can read more here.

answered Jan 16 '13 at 13:36

Belogix

8,129
1
27
32

This way can you also create instances of a class defined in the dll? – user1544067 Jan 16 '13 at 14:46

create header file (.h) and .lib file in visual c#

2 Answers2